Seasoned journalist returns home

Former Broadford resident Lauren Duffy has come full circle returning home after 12 years working in the media industry throughout regional Victoria.

Ms Duffy has returned home to the Mitchell Shire and re-joined the North Central Review as General Manager/ Editor.

Beginning her career at The Free Press in Kilmore in 2001, Ms Duffy (nee Henry) developed an interest in sports journalism.

After five years in Kilmore at The Free Press and North Central Review covering community news and local sport, she spent the next decade travelling throughout Victoria developing her skills at Wimmera Mail-Times, and The Weekly Advertiser in Horsham, and Bendigo Advertiser.

“I’ve been lucky to cover a wide variety of story matters over the years and have enjoyed that – many highlights and lowlights in terms of the subject matter,” Ms Duffy said.

“Many really sad ones have stuck with me including Black Saturday in Horsham and several court and police related stories.”

In 2016, Ms Duffy made the move to Mildura where she spent two years in cross-platform media as Chief of Staff at the ABC.

“When I started in journalism I didn’t have aspirations to end up at the ABC but I wanted to try something different and use my transferrable skills,” she said.

“It was a huge learning curve jumping into television, radio and online but it gave me great experience.”

Looking back on her time away, Ms Duffy reflected on the strong relationships she has built with staff.

“I have been able to mentor younger journalists and see many of my colleagues go on to great careers as well,” she said.

“I’m really happy to be returning to newspapers because that’s where my heart lies.

“My family is here so that is a key factor in moving back to the area plus the opportunity to be in charge of the North Central Review was enticing for my career.

“I’m looking forward to reacquainting myself with the region and the issues that are important to our community. I’m also looking forward to refreshing all three papers to bring a high quality news service to our region.”